Holbien XV Mug: The Abbess

Block 15 of Hans Holbein’s Danse Macabre depicts The Abbess. As Death reaches for her arm, the Abbess resists, turning back toward her spiritual refuge with desperation and dismay. The tension in the scene reflects the broader theme of Holbein’s Macabre: no earthly status or sacred calling shields us from mortality.

Hans Holbein, a 16th-century German artist, created the original Danse Macabre series between 1523 and 1525. Through these richly detailed woodcuts, Holbein recast the traditional Dance of Death as a biting Renaissance satire. His Death figure dances through courts, cloisters, and cottages alike—reminding everyone of life’s inevitable end, and offering darkly humorous commentary on the social and spiritual hierarchies of his time.

Each mug is hand-thrown in our Morganton studio. Ideal for fans of art history, gothic literature, or anyone who enjoys their morning coffee with a side of philosophical reflection.

Dimensions: 4” height x 3.375” diameter, 12–13 ounces

As a handmade mug, dimensions and form vary slightly with each one.